Looking to move beyond targeted assays and understand the full microbiome composition and function? Amplicon (16S) and shotgun metagenomic sequencing, delivered through Alimetrics’ qualified third-party partners, provide high-resolution insights into microbial communities and their metabolic potential.
Where it helps?
- In production and research settings, sequencing enables comprehensive microbiome profiling linked to performance (ADG, FCR, health status).
- Identifies shifts in microbial communities associated with diet, additives, and management factors.
- Supports discovery of biomarkers and mode-of-action insights beyond targeted qPCR panels.
- Enables assessment of microbial diversity, stability, and resilience under production conditions.
How does it work?
Following high-quality DNA extraction (Alimetrics method), samples are processed through best-in-class sequencing platforms via trusted third-party partners.
- 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing: targets bacterial taxonomic composition (who is there)
- Shotgun metagenomic sequencing: captures both taxonomic and functional potential (what they can do)
Alimetrics manages the full workflow including:
- Sample preparation and quality control
- Coordination with sequencing partners
- Bioinformatics processing and interpretation
Our BioFreeze™ kits ensure consistent sampling and preservation prior to DNA extraction and sequencing.
What do we deliver?
- 16S amplicon sequencing outputs:
- Taxonomic profiles (phylum → species level where possible)
- Alpha and beta diversity metrics
- Relative abundance comparisons
- Shotgun metagenomics outputs:
- Species-level taxonomic resolution
- Functional pathway analysis (e.g., carbohydrate metabolism, VFA-L production potential)
- Gene-level insights (e.g., antibiotic resistance, virulence factors – on request)
- Integrated reporting:
- Statistical comparisons between groups
- Visualization and interpretation aligned with production outcomes
Typical use cases
- Feed additive trials:
demonstrate microbiome modulation and link to performance - Mode-of-action studies:
identify functional pathways impacted by interventions - Diet comparisons:
understand microbiome responses to formulation changes - Health challenges:
characterize dysbiosis and recovery patterns - Biomarker discovery:
identify taxa or pathways associated with desirable traits
Sample types
- BioFreeze™ preserved samples
- Frozen feces
- Intestinal digesta samples
We can recommend the optimal sequencing approach (16S vs. metagenomics) based on your study goals, resolution needs, and budget.
